Blog: Prepare to have safe Halloween with tips from the sheriff’s office: Part 2

October 30th, 2013

The McHenry County Sheriff’s Office reminds residents that preparation is the key to a safe Halloween experience. Sheriff’s deputies will be paying extra attention to the residential areas during trick or treating hours. If you see suspicious activity or need assistance, remember to call your local police or sheriff’s office.

Listed below are safety tips to help you prepare. More tips will be shared here Oct. 31.

Costumes

When purchasing costumes, masks, beards and wigs, make sure the label says “flame resistant.” While this doesn’t ensure these items won’t catch fire, it does indicate the items will resist burning and should extinguish quickly.

To minimize the risk of contact with candles or other sources of ignition, avoid costumes made with flimsy materials and outfits with big, baggy sleeves or billowing skirts.

Apply a natural mask of cosmetics rather than have a child wear a loose-fitting mask that might restrict breathing or obscure vision. If a mask is used, make sure it fits securely and has eyeholes large enough to allow full vision.

For greater visibility during dusk and darkness, decorate or trim costumes with reflective tape that will glow in the beam of a car’s headlights. Bags or sacks should also be light colored or decorated with reflective tape. Reflective tape is usually available in hardware, bicycle, and sporting goods stores.

Safety around homes

Homeowners and renters expecting trick-or-treaters should remove anything that could be an obstacle from lawns, steps and porches.

Check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs.

Wet leaves should be swept from sidewalks and steps to avoid slips.

Restrain pets so they do not inadvertently jump on or bite a trick-or-treater.